Another year is drawing to a close, and so I find myself doing sums again. Judging a year by a collection of numbers is about as useful as training by average speed. However I still find it interesting to look back and make a mental note of the year that passed, and see how it added up – especially when compared to the years that preceded it.
2008:
20 days racing. 8 countries. 5 top 10’s, but no podiums.
2009:
47 days racing. 10 countries. 11 top 10’s, including 5 podiums.
2010:
34 days racing. 7 countries. 9 top 10’s, including 5 podiums.
I have a bike, a backpack, a bike bag, and a passport valid for a few mores years yet – and it’s not even half full of stamps. These brief additions in my head don’t show too much of a pattern, but are merely a reflection on how I choose to spend my time. Countries divided by racing days doesn’t equal results. But it helps you meet new and interesting people, and gives you ideas for the next year.
As a marathon mountain biker, the world truly is your oyster, or energy gel. There are Marathon and Stage races around the world, with new races constantly popping up. So if you are experiencing a lull between races, consult the calender and line up some races for the 2011 season. Maybe you can get away for a trip to another country. Make it worthwhile, and get a few races going back to back. If climbing is your thing, get to Austria for Hill Climb time-trials and hard marathons. If you’re stage racing on a budget, get to Poland. Five day stage races here will fit within the regular travellers budget. But you will get hard racing, accommodation, food, and free beer!
Embrace the lifestyle. Use your racing licence, know your licence number and emergency contact information off by heart. Embrace the public transport system and get used to explaining what your bike bag is in a variety of languages.
No, I can’t hire a bike when I get there.
Yes, I can pack light actually.
No, I don’t have a lighter.
No, I’m not one of those guys who does the Tour.
As your year finishes and the new one starts, look ahead with open eyes. Ask yourself what you can achieve, but think about what you can experience. A racing licence is a passport for life!